As bird flu outbreaks continue to affect animals, experts answer questions about keeping pets and their owners healthy

In prior bird flu outbreaks, there’ve been several documented cases of feline-to-feline spread, but ingestion seems to be the primary route of exposure for pets in the current outbreak, says Coleman. If an outdoor cat catches an infected bird or rodent, that can make them sick.

Officials in Pottawatomie County, Kansas reported on March 6 that two cats had tested positive for bird flu. Owners concerned about the virus can keep their cats indoors and reassess their diets.